page_title: Japanese mythology
section_title: Mythological Creatures
hierarchical_section_title: Japanese mythology / Cosmogony / The Japanese Pantheon / Mythological Creatures
caption_attribution_description: English: Japan, 18th century Costumes; Accessories Wood 3 3/4 x 1 7/16 x 1 3/8 in. (9.6 x 3.7 x 3.5 cm) Raymond and Frances Bushell Collection (M.91.250.287) Japanese Art Currently on public view: Pavilion for Japanese Art, floor 2
context_page_description: Japanese mythology is a collection of traditional stories, folktales, and beliefs that emerged in the islands of the Japanese archipelago. Shinto and Buddhist traditions are the cornerstones of Japanese mythology. The history of thousands of years of contact with China, Korea, Ainu, and Okinawan myths are also key influences in Japanese mythology.
  Japanese myths are tied to the topography of the archipelago as well as agriculturally-based folk religion, and the Shinto pantheon holds countless kami.
  Two important sources for Japanese myths as they are recognized today are the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki. The Kojiki, or "Record of Ancient Matters," is the oldest surviving account of Japan's myths, legends, and history. Additionally, the Shintōshū describes the origins of Japanese deities from a Buddhist perspective.
  One notable feature of Japanese mythology is its explanation of the origin of the Imperial Family, which has been used historically to assign godhood to the imperial line.
  Note that Japanese is not transliterated consistently across all sources.
caption: Ryujin: Ruler of Seas and Tides LACMA M.91.250.287
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